About Liz O’Neill
Founder & Integrative Counsellor
BSc (Psych). MA (Counselling). | ACA-L2 Counselling Registration
Liz is an integrative counsellor offering inclusive, affirming, and socially-aware online counselling through her private practice, Among Puffins Counselling. She is based on Bunurong Country in Melbourne, Australia and works with individuals Australia-wide As a member of the LGBTQIAPK+ community with lived experience of chronic illness and complex grief, she brings a compassionate, anti-oppressive lens to the counselling space.
Liz’s work span’s the lifespan. Beginning in play therapy with young children, followed by mentoring and counselling at-risk youth, and then going on to work with women and LGBTQIA+ individuals ranging from young adulthood through to later life. These experiences have given her a deep, firsthand understanding of human development, formative life experiences, neurodivergence, and the ways challenging events shape identity, wellbeing, and relationships.
Today, Liz works with adults using an approach grounded in Emotion-Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and parts work (informed by Internal Family Systems). Her work centres emotions, somatic experiences, personal stories, and the different parts of ourselves that shape how we feel, relate, and move through the world.
If you’re feeling curious about working together, you’re welcome to reach out to arrange an initial conversation or learn more about how counselling with Liz might support you.
Liz offers 50-minute ($130) and 75-minute ($180) sessions, as well as a limited number of reduced-fee appointments for those experiencing financial hardship.
A Space Where We Belong: The Story Behind Among Puffins Counselling
The Story Behind the Name
Among Puffins was founded by Liz O’Neill to create a space for anyone who has ever felt a little different, out of place or misunderstood.
Puffins are small, resilient seabirds that often go unnoticed whilst navigating harsh environments. They adapt creatively and thrive living on the edges. Like the people I work with, they’re unique, bold, playful and loving but are often overlooked and underestimated as they don’t fit the conventional expectations of other seabirds.
This is a space Among Puffins, where you're welcomed by a fellow outsider who gets it. A place where uniqueness is recognised, differences are celebrated, and no voice is too quiet to be heard.
Here, you can show up without pretending. You can talk about your struggles without being treated like you’re broken. You can be neurodivergent, chronically ill, grieving, angry, confused, overwhelmed or whatever you’re carrying and it's met with understanding, not judgment.
Vision
Mental health spaces have a long history of encouraging people to conform to specific ways of being, often shaped by the assumptions and values of dominant groups. For decades, “optimal” mental health was narrowly defined, pathologising difference rather than recognising the diversity of human experience.
Our vision is to contribute to a mental health culture that moves away from conformity and towards inclusion, understanding, and respect for difference.
Mission
Our mission is to offer inclusive, affirming counselling that supports people to understand themselves, honour their differences, and live in ways that feel authentic and empowering.
Does our vision resonate with you?
If you’re seeking counselling that values inclusion, authenticity, and respect for difference, reach out today. If we’re not the right fit, I’ll assist you in finding someone who is.
If you’re a professional supporting clients with similar needs and would like to connect or build a referral pathway, we’d love to hear from you!
Get in touch
If you think Liz might be the counsellor you’ve been looking for, reach out via the contact form.
Let us know:
What you're looking for support with
Your availability (Days/times that work for you. Liz generally works Tuesdays & Thursdays including evenings. If you’re a new client, Liz is happy to arrange an inquiry call at a time that works for you outside of these hours).
Any questions about counselling, pricing, availability and scope of practice. Check out my FAQ Page incase your query has already been answered!
Enquiries are answered within 24-48 hours.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!
No waitlist. No referral required. Concession rates available.
Get in touch today to discuss